Preserve
America Community designation recognizes communities that are leaders
in building the future on the strong foundation of their heritage. Granted by
the White House, these designations go to communities that:

protect
and celebrate their heritage;

use their historic assets for economic development
and community revitalization; and

encourage people to experience and appreciate
local historic resources through education and heritage tourism programs.

Benefits
of designation include:

White House recognition;

a certificate
of recognition;

a Preserve America Community road sign;

authorization
to use the Preserve America logo on signs, flags, banners, and promotional
materials;

listing in a Web-based Preserve America Community directory;

inclusion in national and regional press releases;

official
notification of designation to State tourism offices and visitor bureaus; and

enhanced community visibility and pride.

Four application
and designation cycles occur each year. The 2005 application deadlines are March
1, June 1, September 1, and December 1.

On July 26, 2005, the Preserve
America Community program was expanded to include the new Preserve America
Community Neighborhood program, for which neighborhoods in metropolitan areas
with populations greater than 200,000 persons are eligible.